A Guide to Great Places in Dublin to Watch the Six Nations

The rugby Six Nations is one of the most electric tournaments in the sport, and there’s no better place to soak up the atmosphere than in one of its host cities. 

Whether you’re lucky enough to have a match ticket or you’re planning on heading to Dublin to mingle with like-minded fans and enjoy the buzz around the city, you’ll want to find a spot to watch Ireland or any of the other five countries battle it out over the weekend. 

So, to help, we’ve put together a list of our 10 favourite places in Dublin to watch the Six Nations. 


Aviva Stadium
What better place to watch the rugby live than the Aviva Stadium? This huge international stadium will host the first match of the Six Nations (Ireland v Scotland) on the 1^st February at 4:45pm. Live the moment as you and 50,000 other spectators watch the action – it's an experience not to be missed.


Bull & Castle
Well-known by locals for showing all the international games on multiple screens in their upstairs ‘Butchers Bar’, the Bull & Castle serves craft ales and boasts a burger as well as an oyster bar, so you’re guaranteed a good time. You’ll find this gem on Lord Edward Street in the heart of the city. 


The Bath Pub
One of the city’s most popular rugby haunts (so you’ll need to get there early to secure a spot), and a stone’s throw from the Aviva stadium, the Bath pub is the next best thing to watching the game live. 

You’ll find plenty of big screens showing the action, be surrounded by rugby-mad locals, and can line your stomach with pizza thanks to Base wood-fired pizza who’re on-site. This fan-favourite also offers a large outdoor terrace, cocktails, burgers and more, and you can find it on Bath Avenue. 


The Swan Bar
This pub’s rugby connection is second to none - Irish players historically drank here the night before a match and it used to be owned by Lions and Leinster legend John Lynch, so if soaking up a bit of the city’s rugby tradition is on your to-do list, you’ll want to head here. A unique and authentic Victorian pub, the Swan is a must-visit for die-hard fans of the sport, you’ll find it at 58 York Street. 


The Bridge 1859
You’ll find this multi-award-winning bar a short walk from the Aviva Stadium, but its biggest draw is that it’s owned by members of the current Irish rugby squad including Jamie Heaslip, Sean O’Brien, Rob and Dave Kearney. 

With that in mind, unsurprisingly, you’ll find a top-notch atmosphere in this boozer on match days, plus great food and drink - it won Best Sports Bar in the National Hospitality Awards in 2019. You can find this one on Ballsbridge Terrace. 


Sam’s Bar
Compared to some of the heritage on offer by its rivals, Sam’s Bar is a fairly new kid on the block but it’s already proving a hit with rugby fans thanks to its extra-large HD projector showing all the games - giving you a great view wherever you find a spot. 

If you’re looking for something a bit trendier than your traditional pub then Sam’s could be right up your street thanks to its sophisticated furnishing and art-deco fixtures. If that floats your boat, head to Dawson Street. 


Searsons
Self-proclaimed as ‘the place to be on match days’, Searsons offers a beautifully restored bar, warm, friendly and inviting atmosphere plus excellent food and drink. If your tipple of choice is whiskey, you’ll struggle to find a better selection in the city as Searsons boasts 150 bottles to choose from. 

Hailed bar of the year in 2019, you’ll find this treasure on Baggot Street in the city centre. 


Woolshed Baa & Grill
Looking for something a little bit different? Then this southern hemisphere themed sports bar could be just the ticket. Originally opened with Australian, New Zealand and South African fans in mind, this bar has expanded to become a favourite of supporters near and far. 

They offer a vast burger menu, plus pizzas, salads and ‘the best chicken wings in town’, craft beer and a large selection of bottled beers from around the world, as well as the latest technology providing top-quality match coverage. Sold? You’ll find the Woolshed on Parnell Street. 


JW Sweetman’s 
If you’re a bit of a beer boffin then Sweetman’s is the place for you as it offers a selection of award-winning craft beers brewed on-site, alongside an excellent food menu that’s carefully paired to each ale and very reasonably priced. Mouthwatering, yes, but we’ve not overlooked the rugby - Sweetman’s is set over multiple floors and offers a screen on each resulting in an electric atmosphere. Get yourself to Burgh Quay to experience it for yourself. 


The Dame Tavern
If snug and compact is more your thing then this cozy pub in the centre of Dublin hits the right notes. Some locals argue it serves one of the best pints of Guinness in the city, and you’ll also be greeted by friendly staff, a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, and of course they’ll be showing the rugby. 

For those who enjoy watching their sport in a more condensed and communal atmosphere, head down to Dame Lane. 


The Church
This pub goes big on match days with screens set up in every room as well as outside (if you’re feeling brave). Their promise is to deliver Irish hospitality and entertainment at a new level and given its popularity, we’d say they don’t disappoint - it’s a favourite for locals and international visitors alike, and you can find it on the junction of Mary Street and Jervis Street. 

After an afternoon of great beer and even better rugby you’ll probably need somewhere to get some rest, and for that, we’ve got you covered. Both of our conveniently located Dublin hotels, Christchurch and Parnell Street, provide large comfortable beds, free WiFi, en-suite facilities and multi-channel TV’s - so you could even catch a game from the comfort of your room! 


Want to make a weekend of it? Stay at Leonardo Hotels Dublin and discover the perfect place to lay your head after a long day of exploring this fascinating city.